Mediation is the first step towards many conflict resolution processes. Yet, key aspects on the circumstances of mediation processes and the role of the mediator herself are still disputed. This paper seeks to examine the role of mediation within the field of conflict resolution and its implications on durable peace. Furthermore, mediation will be put in relation to the spoiler concept and deriving consequences are discussed.
The role of mediation is described very differently throughout the literature, depending on the focus of analysis and pre-assumptions on what mediation is, how it works, and what the ultimate goals are. On the one hand, we see scholars framing mediation entirely as a conflict resolution enterprise, whereas others understand mediation as a tool for conflict management and transformation. Research on different levels of mediation like the international states sphere, the intra-state environment, or local mediation has elevated different findings on when mediation is successful and when it is not.
Therefore, it will be clarified in the first place what understandings of mediation we face in research and how these interpretations relate to each other. In a next step, it will be discussed why mediation is important and what theoretical problems are met by the tool. Afterwards, the paper will focus on the conditions of mediation and their positive and negative effects on the process of conflict resolution. Finally, the spoiler concept will be introduced and compared to mediation.
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Defining Mediation
- 3. Mediation's Utility
- 4. Conditions of Mediation
- 5. Mediating with Spoilers
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper examines the role of mediation in conflict resolution and its impact on lasting peace. It explores various understandings of mediation, its theoretical challenges, and the conditions influencing its effectiveness. The relationship between mediation and the spoiler concept is also analyzed.
- Different understandings of mediation (conflict resolution vs. conflict management/transformation).
- The theoretical challenges of commitment and information problems in mediation.
- Conditions influencing the success or failure of mediation efforts.
- The role of mediators in overcoming commitment and information problems.
- The relationship between mediation and the spoiler concept.
Chapter Summaries
1. Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage for the paper by highlighting the importance of mediation in conflict resolution, despite ongoing debates surrounding its nature and effectiveness. It outlines the paper's objectives: to examine the role of mediation, its implications for durable peace, and its relationship with the spoiler concept. The chapter introduces the diverse interpretations of mediation found in the literature, ranging from conflict resolution to conflict management and transformation, emphasizing the need for clarification and a comprehensive understanding.
2. Defining Mediation: This chapter delves into the core concept of mediation, examining various scholarly perspectives and their implications. While agreement exists on mediation as a form of voluntary third-party intervention, significant differences arise regarding its goals and application within the conflict timeline. The chapter contrasts views that situate mediation within conflict transformation/management with those that consider it primarily a conflict resolution tool. It presents a widely accepted framework by Bercovitch & Rubin (1992), defining mediation as a conflict management process where disputants seek help to influence their perceptions or behavior without resorting to force or law. The chapter adopts a broad definition to encompass the various understandings of mediation.
3. Mediation's Utility: This chapter emphasizes the relevance of mediation and explores how it addresses the commitment and information problems inherent in conflict resolution. It highlights mediation as a crucial first step toward peaceful settlements, contrasting it with the often violent alternative of continued conflict or unilateral victory. The chapter cites Bercovitch's (1996) findings on the increased use of mediation in post-Cold War conflicts, while acknowledging the high failure rate of mediation attempts. It discusses how mediation, by introducing a trusted third party, can help overcome the commitment problem, providing credible guarantees for agreed-upon settlements. The chapter also addresses the information problem, explaining how mediation facilitates communication and reduces private information, leading to more informed decisions by conflicting parties. Different mediator strategies and their impact on credibility are also discussed.
Keywords
Mediation, conflict resolution, conflict management, conflict transformation, peacebuilding, commitment problem, information problem, third-party intervention, spoilers, peace agreements, international relations, intrastate conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this language preview?
This preview provides a comprehensive overview of a paper examining the role of mediation in conflict resolution and its impact on lasting peace. It covers various aspects of mediation, including its definition, utility, conditions for success, and its relationship with "spoilers" (actors who undermine peace processes).
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
The paper explores different understandings of mediation (conflict resolution vs. conflict management/transformation), the theoretical challenges of commitment and information problems in mediation, conditions influencing mediation's success or failure, the mediator's role in overcoming these challenges, and the relationship between mediation and spoilers.
What are the chapter summaries included in the preview?
The preview includes summaries of five chapters: An introduction highlighting the importance of mediation and outlining the paper's objectives; a chapter defining mediation and exploring different perspectives; a chapter emphasizing mediation's utility in addressing commitment and information problems; and additional chapters focusing on the conditions for successful mediation and mediation involving spoilers (the exact content of these chapters is not detailed in the preview).
What are the objectives of the paper?
The paper aims to examine the role of mediation in conflict resolution, its implications for durable peace, and its relationship with the spoiler concept. It seeks to clarify different understandings of mediation and analyze the conditions that influence its effectiveness.
What are the key challenges discussed regarding mediation?
The key challenges highlighted include the commitment problem (difficulty ensuring parties will uphold agreements) and the information problem (lack of transparency and shared understanding among parties). The paper explores how mediation can address these challenges.
What is the role of mediators according to the preview?
Mediators are seen as crucial third-party interveners who can help overcome commitment and information problems by providing credible guarantees and facilitating communication between conflicting parties.
What is the significance of the "spoiler" concept in this context?
The preview indicates that the paper analyzes the relationship between mediation and the spoiler concept, suggesting an examination of how actors who deliberately undermine peace processes affect mediation efforts.
What keywords are associated with this paper?
Key words include: Mediation, conflict resolution, conflict management, conflict transformation, peacebuilding, commitment problem, information problem, third-party intervention, spoilers, peace agreements, international relations, intrastate conflict.
What is the structure of the Table of Contents?
The Table of Contents includes: 1. Introduction, 2. Defining Mediation, 3. Mediation's Utility, 4. Conditions of Mediation, and 5. Mediating with Spoilers.
What type of conflict is this research focused on?
While not explicitly stated, the keywords suggest the research is relevant to both international relations and intrastate conflicts.
- Quote paper
- Johannes Wander (Author), 2015, Mediation in the Conflict Resolution Process, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/341495
